FIVE COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT EATING DISORDERS?

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Myth #3: Eating disorders are a cry for attention or a person 'going through a phase'

The NEDC Youth Consultation showed that 51.3% of 12-17 year olds strongly agreed or agreed that a person with an eating disorder should 'snap out of it, there are more important things in life to worry about'. These types of misconceptions are not limited to the general public. A person with an eating disorder may receive similar reactions from some health professionals.

Truth:

People with eating disorders are not seeking attention. In fact, due to the nature of an eating disorder a person may go to great lengths to hide, disguise or deny their behaviour, or may not recognise that there is anything wrong.

An eating disorder is a serious mental illness. It is not a phase and it will not be resolved without treatment and support. Regardless of the age of a person at the time their eating disorder begins, there is often a considerable period of time between onset and treatment; an average of approximately 4 years between the start of disordered eating behaviours and first treatment. The person may also see a number of healthcare professionals before receiving a correct diagnosis. A reduction of this delay can result in improved health and quality of life. Evidence shows that early diagnosis and intervention can greatly reduce the duration and severity of an eating disorder. It is therefore vital to seek professional help at the earliest possible time


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